Infrastructure Commission welcomed

BusinessNZ says the establishment of the new Infrastructure Commission will help overcome current infrastructure problems in New Zealand.

Chief Executive Kirk Hope says there’s a need for greater investment in infrastructure and for better alignment of infrastructure demand and supply.

“We are again in a situation where we have rapid population and urban growth while infrastructure is failing to keep pace.

“Government investment of $42 billion over the next three years will help address this. How it is invested will be critical to community development, and guidance by the Infrastructure Commission will help ensure its appropriate use.

“BusinessNZ recommended that the Commission should be focused on strategy, planning and support for project delivery and it is helpful to see that this will be the Commission’s focus.

“It is appropriate that the Commission will provide independent advice to Government, taking account of private sector infrastructure investors, other market participants and local government.

“We look forward to the Infrastructure Commission contributing to integrated procurement and investment decision-making, giving business the confidence to invest in people and equipment, resulting in long-lasting, high quality infrastructure for New Zealand.”